Vermont's "footpath in the wilderness" The oldest long distance hiking trail in America

Built by the Green Mountain Club between 1910 and 1930, the Long Trail is the oldest long-distance trail in the United States. The Long Trail follows the main ridge of the Green Mountains from the Massachusetts-Vermont line to the Canadian border as it crosses Vermont's highest peaks. It was the inspiration for the Appalachian Trail, which coincides with it for one hundred miles in the southern third of the state.

Although the Long Trail is known as Vermont's "footpath in the wilderness," its character may more accurately be described as backcountry. As it winds its way to Canada, the Trail climbs rugged peaks and passes pristine ponds, alpine bogs, hardwood forests and swift streams. The Long Trail is steep in some places, muddy in others, and rugged in most. Novice and expert alike will enjoy the varied terrain of the trail as it passes through the heart of Vermont's backwoods.

With its 273-mile footpath, 175 miles of side trails, and nearly 70 primitive shelters, the Long Trail offers endless hiking opportunities for the day hiker, weekend overnighter, and extended backpacker.

The Long Trail Guide is the official guide to the Long Trail and its network of side trails. This guidebook and the Club's companion publication Day Hiker's Guide to Vermont, which includes trails outside the Long Trail System, together cover the majority of hiking trails in Vermont.

Trail Marking - The Long Trail is marked by two-by-six-inch white blazes. Along the trail, intersections are usually marked with signs. Double blazes may mark important turns. Side trails are blazed in blue and signed.